2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1968 Volvo 120
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 1,908 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP) has 91 more horse power than 1968 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1968 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1968 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Volvo 120 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1968 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1968 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volvo |
| Model | 159 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1908 cc | 1777 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
